October: Standardized Tests, College Planning, Grades, and More!
Happy October! This is a busy month for your student – getting quarter grades back, thinking about PSAT/SAT/ACT prep, and college applications for seniors. We’ll be tackling all of the above this month to provide you with timely advice!
Today we’re going to touch briefly on some college admissions planning. If your student is a senior, they are for sure in the full swing of things (and if you need a little help on organizing or essay writing – we can help!). For juniors and below, this isn’t a top priority, but thinking about all this stuff can be helpful for getting a head start next year!
College Admissions Planning
At Octant, we are primarily focused on the academic subjects and standardized tests that help set you apart from other candidates in the admissions process. But schools look at applicants holistically, making the ‘story’ told in your application even more important. We work with students on their application essays and how to show admissions officers who you are.
Consider these tips (a few of many) for approaching the application process and essays:
It’s all narrative: Admissions essays are essentially stories! They bring us to a moment in your student’s life and captivate us. Your student should put us in their shoes and what they learned from their experiences.
Don’t write what you think admissions officers want to hear: Officers read thousands of essays every year and just like anyone, they want to read stories that are creative, original, and give a clear idea of who your student is!
For seniors: Take a look at the application and make sure each element (every essay, resume, opportunity to share) is different and adds to your student’s overall narrative. Every piece should add another layer to sharing who they are.
Research the school: Schools like to know that you have invested time into learning about them and why your student would be a good fit. Spend some time researching programs they offer, clubs, and other things that appeal to your student about the school. Reference these things in connection to interests when applicable in the application!
For all students: Think about the “story” your student wants to convey to admissions. Start building a resume and extracurriculars around interests. Consider writing down big life events and brainstorming the top 21 things someone should know. Even the smallest things can lead to great storytelling.
Later this month we’ll share more specific writing strategies for college admissions essays! If you’d like help crafting or reviewing your essays, set up a consultation with us!
Highlighting Our Partners
We’re not the experts on all things college admissions, but we know some people who are:
College Crossroads Consulting
For the better part of a decade, College Crossroads Consulting has been helping students and families navigate the increasingly complex and competitive college application process. Catherine Northup has degrees from Smith College and Harvard University and works with students in the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as nationally and internationally. She is especially experienced with student-athletes and serving their unique application needs. Please fill out the contact form at www.collegecrossroadsconsulting.com to arrange for a complimentary introductory consultation.
Athens Advisors
Athens Advisors is a recognized leader in the profession of college counseling. Athens teaches future college admission counselors at UC Berkeley and UCLA, has over 100 combined years of leadership in every phase of college planning, and has worked with high school and college students for over 40 years. They remain current on national and regional developments in college admissions, athletics, and financing, and provide excellent service. Athens is also highly regarded for leading college tours with high school groups.
Hawthorn College Advisors
Hawthorn College Advisors holistic approach starts with self-reflection as students begin to recognize their own strengths and unique identity. As active members of the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) and the Western Association of College Admissions Counseling (WACAC), Liz & Janet utilize their years of experience in the college admissions industry to guide each student toward an informed and confident college decision. To arrange a complimentary consultation, email us at info@hawthorncollegeadvisors.com.
Fall Fun Facts!
Our Staff's Favorite Fall Books:
Shaniya: Harry Potter series
Zach: Dead Poets Society – Nancy H. Kleinbaum
Haley: The Witches – Roald Dahl
Adam: Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be - Frank Bruni